THOUSANDS of music lovers flocked to an outdoor festival in Northop over the weekend.

X-Factor star Rhydian, the Three Welsh Tenors and Only Men Aloud were among the headliners at Gwyl Gobaith festival, which ended last night (Sunday) and was hailed a huge success.

Now in its third year, the event was originally set up to promote music in the community while raising money for charity.

Speaking before the finale concert last night featuring Only Men Aloud and Only Boys Aloud, Eryl Vaughan, of Windpower Wales, one of the festival sponsors, said it had been a great weekend.

Mr Vaughan, the company’s managing director, said: “We were sponsoring the first evening with the money going to the air ambulance.

“There was a shower right at the beginning but had a good turn out with 700 coming to see Rhydian.

“On Saturday there was very little difference for the Three Tenors, the female quartet Escala, Natasha Marsh and Ysgol Penbarras Choir from Ruthin.

“And before tonight’s concert (Sunday) more than 1,000 were expected at the finale with Only Men Aloud and Only Boys Aloud. Tickets sales have really picked up.”

The festival organisers teamed up with Avanti TV to cover the event. Avanti have in the past been involved in high profile performances including Tom Jones Comes Home to Ponty Park and Katherine Jenkins at Margam Castle.

Head of Avanti, Emyr Afan, said: “What attracted us to this event was also the ethos behind it. We are glad that we are part of the team now and this festival needs to grow steadily.

“In the coming years we want this festival brand name to be able to sell itself.”

Before the event Rhydian, who was born in Powys, said: “It is a pleasure to be able to perform here.

“I love to perform and it is essential that we keep music festivals alive in Wales and Clwyd, because it is a great place, with good links across the border.